NRP Say Yes to Legalization of Weed

The word is out; the Nevis Reformation Party may support legalization of marijuana for recreational and medical use.

This information was disclosed by The Hon. Carlisle Powell, NRP Senator in the House Assembly. On Wednesday, Mr. Powell said he sees nothing wrong with recreational use of the plant.

To support his position, he pointed to the widespread use of marijuana throughout the Caribbean, including on St. Kitts and Nevis. He also said the use of the plant by the public spreads well beyond the Rastafarian community.

Powell suggested legalizing the plant could have an effect on tourism, pointing out that 25 states in America have gone the route of making marijuana legal for medical or recreational purposes.

Vance Amory, Premier of Nevis, has gone on record as opposing marijuana legalization as has Dr. Timothy Harris who said he was firm on maintaining the laws of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Powell strengthened his argument in favor of decriminalizing the plant, pointing out that the Christian Counsel and Evangelical Association has not protested the use of alcohol or tobacco and that he does not think they will take a stance against marijuana.

On Nov. 2, a town hall meeting — one of three scheduled — will be held on the issue. A three-member panel consisting of a doctor and an attorney will attend the meeting. Neither person has been asked if they are pro or anti-marijuana for medical or recreational purposes.

The use of marijuana in the United States for recreational purposes is on the increase because of the success of the program in Colorado and Washington D.C. Other states are including the issue on ballots for voters to decide in future elections.